Heartbreak at the Buzzer: Raiders Fall to Centralia in Season Finale, 71-68

The Pierce Raiders closed out their season Wednesday night at home in a game that will be remembered for both celebration and heartbreak. After honoring sophomores Wyatt Ulsh, Mande Wanlemvo, and Jonah Bell prior to tipoff, Pierce battled for 40 minutes but fell to Centralia 71-68 on a last-second three-pointer by the Trailblazers.

The Raiders fed off the pregame energy early, building momentum throughout the first half. Pierce controlled the tempo and took a 37-29 lead into the break behind efficient shooting and strong defensive effort.

Ishe Kanhukamwe delivered a standout performance in the finale, pouring in a game-high 27 points on 8-of-19 shooting, including 5-of-12 from beyond the arc. He also added six rebounds and three assists in a full 40-minute effort. Ulsh made his presence felt inside with 10 points on 4-of-5 shooting, while grabbing five rebounds.

Wanlemvo anchored the glass with a team-high 10 rebounds to go along with seven points and five steals in 33 minutes. Bell added six points, two rebounds, and two assists in his final game as a Raider.

Pierce shot 41.8% from the field and knocked down 10 three-pointers at a 40% clip. The Raiders finished with 34 total rebounds, just behind Centralia’s 36, and recorded nine steals on the defensive end. However, 16 turnovers proved costly as the Trailblazers used extra possessions to fuel their second-half push.

But the second half told a different story. Centralia slowly chipped away at the deficit, capitalizing on turnovers and key second-chance opportunities. Pierce committed 16 turnovers in the game, which proved costly as the Trailblazers tightened the margin in the final minutes.

With the game tied late, Centralia delivered the decisive blow - a three-pointer at the buzzer that silenced the home crowd and sealed the 71-68 victory. Despite the heartbreaking ending, the night was a meaningful one for Pierce as they celebrated the careers and impact of their sophomore leaders. Ulsh, Wanlemvo, and Bell each left their mark on the program.